4Q cut plate price

Source: www.purchasingdata.com

WHAT IT MEANS: Spot prices around $800/ton may not last. Plate makers are optimistic about second-half demand from expanded repair of highway bridges, fabrication of railroad tank cars and a new sales target, wind turbine towers used to generate electricity.

The year pure indium disappears

Source: University of Augsburg

WHAT IT MEANS: Armin Reller, a materials chemist, sees finite supplies of this rare metal used for making liquid-crystal displays for flat-screen televisions and computer monitors. The scientist says buyers should endorse programs to reduce use and expand recycling.

Aluminum price forecast

Source: Harbor Aluminum

WHAT IT MEANS: Buyers should expect world aluminum ingot to average more on than the $1.16/lb of 2006. That's because of the early-year surge. Now, though, prices are sliding because supply is expanding while demand is stalling.